County Council agree to explore development of new voluntary & community hub in Tamworth

STAFFORDSHIRE County Council has given outline approval for the former Moorgate School on The Leys in Tamworth, to be developed as a Voluntary and Community Hub.

After exploring a number of options, the panel agreed that retaining the historic building for community use was their preferred option if sufficient funding can be secured to make the building fit for purpose.

Support Staffordshire, a local umbrella charity, and formerly operating in Tamworth as Tamworth CVS, has brought together more than a dozen local community groups, charities and social enterprises, to explore the venture.

Support Staffordshire Chief Executive, Garry Jones said: “We are delighted that the initial support from the council has now been confirmed. We still have a lot of hard work to do, to raise money and fully understand the need and viability of a community hub, but this is a great first step.”

Local Community Group, Moorgate Action Group (MAG) conducted a survey of residents, locally and in the wider population, to provide evidence of what people want the site to be used for. The results of the survey can be seen here.

MAG says that they will continue to be involved in the future of the site, to ensure that the proposed hub meets the needs of the people of Tamworth.

Support Staffordshire has also been working closely with local residents to ensure local residents are fully involved as the project develops.

The next step is to develop the business plan, secure funding and talk further with local community groups and residents.

“We want to thank everyone for their support so far, especially Moorgate Action Group and Council officers and members; it’s been a real partnership effort”- said Mr Jones.

Local county councillor Ben Adams said: “I welcome the news that the county council is exploring every option regarding the future of the buildings including working with Support Staffordshire and its plans for community use. The former Moorgate school buildings are a valued part of Tamworth’s heritage.”